Welcome to December’s blog! Can you believe we made it to the end of 2019? That year went way too fast! This month’s blog will focus on debunking important myths about payment methods. With the holiday season in full swing, our wallets seem to become quite light - and this can last for months after Christmas. If you are thinking about trying chiropractic treatment and are worried about the cost, you can be assured that there are many ways to finance your important recovery.
Myth: Chiropractic visits are expensive.
Fact: The average chiropractic visit can vary between $50 and $60 for returning consultations. Compared with a regular GP or specialist appointment, where the fees vary hugely (sometimes upwards of $150 or more!), chiropractic visits can actually work out to be a more affordable option! Plus, chiropractic is a drug-free method of pain relief, so you won’t necessarily have to empty your wallet at the pharmacy after treatment. Alongside this, most of the X-rays referred by your chiropractor will be bulk billed at your local radiology centre.
Myth: Chiropractic is not covered under Medicare.
Fact: While chiropractic services are not bulk billed, there is a Medicare rebate scheme that you may be eligible for. This could give you a specified number of sessions that will be covered under Medicare each calendar year. This is called a Chronic Disease Management plan, we call it CDM for short; it used to be called a Enhanced Primary Care Plan (EPC). CDM plans will be made by your general practitioner (GP) based on your individual needs and circumstances. Eligibility requirements dictate that your injury or condition is chronic or complex. This may seem rigorous, however, chronic can mean suffering a condition (or likely to suffer) for longer than 6 months. You can receive up to 5 visits each calendar year- so make sure to mention this to your GP if you think you may be eligible. Arranging for an CDM plan can take around two weeks, so consult your local GP today to inquire about this program.
Myth: Chiropractic is not covered under private health insurance.
Fact: Many chiropractic services are covered under private health including initial consultations, re-assessments and regular visits. However, your individual level of cover will determine the gap you pay for our services. You will have to bring your private health card into the clinic or lodge a manual claim (either online or by visiting your healthcare provider) post appointment. If you are making a manual claim, remember to provide your receipt, which will have costs and item numbers needed to make a claim. If you have any questions about your level of cover, consult your private health insurer. Our friendly receptionists would be more than happy to answer any additional questions you might have about private health when you pop in next.
Myth: Veterans cannot receive subsidised chiropractic visits.
Fact: The Department of Veterans’ Affairs, or DVA for short, may cover the cost of your treatment if you are a holder of a DVA White or Gold Health Card (for more information, please visit www.dva.gov.au/factsheet-hsv13-chiropractic-services). Like CDM plans, you must be referred by a GP, who will help manage your condition across the 12-visit treatment cycle you may be eligible for. This will cover you for 12 visits, or up to one year, whichever ends first. After this cycle, your chiropractor will provide a report to your GP, which will aid in determining whether another referral is required. If you would like to find out more about this program, consult your local GP and have a chat with our friendly team today.
Although this is not an exhaustive list and there may be methods of payment that we have not mentioned, these are key questions that we often hear. Chiropractic treatment is an affordable method of healthcare, and there are many ways to finance your recovery, maintenance and continued vitality. And of course, prevention is always best, so regular maintenance sessions will be cheaper in the long run!
If you would like to discuss payment methods further, please chat to our experienced and knowledgeable reception staff who will be more than happy to walk you through your options. Remember: your health is the most valuable investment you can make.
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